“No one cared about my accolades coming in as a freshman. It’s not enough just to be good, because everyone is good. It forced me not to ride on my natural ability and to buckle down to figure out things like theory, music history, and performance practice. It made me realize that being an individual is paramount, and you have to prove why you are different from everyone else. What about your ability to emote a song or interpret a piece is going to set you apart?”

Trey McLaughlin was born in Augusta, GA, where he graduated from John S. Davidson Magnet School in 2002. While in high school, Trey was a member of the non-profit performing arts organization, Creative Impressions, serving as both President and Student Director.

Trey is a 2008 graduate of Columbus State University’s Schwob School of Music in Columbus, GA. During his time at CSU, Trey was a member of its University Singers and Chorale. Trey is a member and past president of the professional music fraternity Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, and he is a former director of G.E.N.E.S.I.S. -- the Columbus State University Gospel Choir. In May of 2008, Mr. McLaughlin obtained a Bachelor of Science in Music Performance with an emphasis in Vocal Pedagogy. 

In 2014, Mr. McLaughlin began his international career, conducting a Master Class and performing at the L’Opéra de Massy in Massy, France. In October of 2015, Trey conducted a 300-voice choir in Krakow, Poland, as the guest clinician of the annual 7x Festival. At home, Trey has been extended the honor of serving as the guest clinician for Honor Choruses throughout the state of Georgia.

Trey is a passionate solo vocalist -- recognizing the beauty of and fusing together an eclectic mix of musical genres for all those who encounter his artistry. He composes and performs original works and prolifically arranged covers with his own recording and touring ensemble, The Sounds of Zamar.

Trey currently serves as Director of Worship and Arts at Tabernacle Baptist Church of Augusta, Georgia, where he stewards and oversees 12 ministries and approximately 250 volunteers. Mr. McLaughlin has taught as adjunct faculty at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota, teaching graduate level courses where he continues his passion for writing and arranging music, teaching piano, and conducting classes in vocal technique. Trey was recognized by the Augusta Arts Council as its 2018 Artist of the Year. His international, national and local work in the arts continues to provide rich cultural, artistic experiences for all who encounter his programming.

To get in touch with Trey, you can visit treymclaughlin.com or find him on Facebook (@trey.mclaughlin.503) or Instagram (@treymclaughlin)

Choir Fam wants to hear from you! Check out the Minisode Intro Part 3 episode from February 16, 2024, to hear how to share your story with us.

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Podcast music from Podcast.co
Photo in episode artwork by Trace Hudson